Richard S. Pond, 102, of Walton, passed away peacefully at his home Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024.
Richard, known to all as “Dick,” was born March 15, 1921 in Walton to the late Samuel and Helen (Sturgis) Pond. Richard was a graduate of Walton Central School and Princeton University earning his degree in geology.
He was an Army private first-class during World War II where he served in the Pacific campaign, the Philippines and Okinawa, Japan. His units were 96th Division then later the 10th, a support unit for intelligence and recon patrol; he was discharged in 1946.
Following in his family business, Pond Insurance Agency, Dick took over when his father retired in 1959. He operated the agency until he retired 22 years ago at age 80. His health was good, allowing him to continue riding his bicycle, drive around town and local communities up to a couple years ago. Dick loved sports cars and enjoyed auto racing.
Dick was a member of the American Legion, former Lions club member and the Walton Sportsman’s Club. He loved to read, watch tennis matches on TV and listened to music from classic, big band to jazz, often driving to local concerts. He enjoyed going to Soup It Up every Tuesday at New Hope Community Church.
Dick is survived by his cousin, Steve McGlone and family, and many friends who have known him through the years. He was predeceased by his parents.
Special thank you to his caregivers Julie, Fayann, Tracie, Kim, Nancy and Tina along with his nurse Sarah who allowed him to stay at home these last few years. Thank you to Hospice who provided comfort and care during his last days.
Services will be held Feb. 10 at 11 a.m. at Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton. Burial will be in Walton Cemetery in the spring.
Arrangements are with Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton. Expressions of sympathy may be made online by visiting www.courtneyfh.com
Memorial contributions in Dick’s memory may be made to Honor Flight for Veterans at www.honorflight.org/donate or mail to: P.O. Box L-4016, Columbus, Ohio 43260-4016.
